The Extension Advisory Committee (EAC) for Montgomery County is composed of community stakeholders who inform UME about needs in the County, identify underserved audiences, and contribute concepts and ideas to inform UME programs. EAC members possess a personal interest in community development, the ability to see and reflect the needs of audiences that can be addressed by UME, and maintain a long-term focus to address these needs. 

The EAC liaises with Extension clientele and establishes priority activities for the 4-H Youth Development, Agriculture & Food Systems (AgFS), Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-ED), and Master Gardeners & Environment programs. 

Roles and Responsibilities

The EAC is an integral part of UME planning, as required by recipients of Federal financial assistance. Its' focus includes community engagement, promotion of UME programs, as well as grassroots outreach, advocacy, and representation. Stakeholder input is sought on a variety of different levels, that may include:

  • Advice on priority setting and program development
  • Input on both immediate needs and long-term goals 
  • Participation in relevancy and portfolio reviews
  • Guidance on monitoring, evaluation, and oversight systems employed to track performance and results
  • Counsel on emerging technologies and recommendations for public education and discussion about the mission and directions of the University of Maryland
  • Grassroots outreach, advocacy, and representation
  • Active partnership in community engagement
  • Marketing and promotion of UME programs for broad outreach

Current Members, Terms, and Affiliated Programs

4-H Youth Development

  • Karen Al-Faleh (2024-25) - 4-H MD, Montgomery County 4-H
  • Kathy Fumagalli (2024-25)

Agriculture and Food Systems

  • Tyler Butler (2024-25)
  • Trenda Davison (2024-25) - Historic Site Manager, Agricultural History Farm Park, Montgomery Parks
  • Jennifer Freeman (2024-25) - Community FarmShare
  • Nia Nyamweya (2024-25)

Family and Consumer Sciences, EFNEP & SNAP-Ed

  • Annmarie Hart-Bookbinder (2024-25) (SNAP-Ed) - Director of Food Security Programs, Montgomery County Food Council
  • Jeanne Purich (2024-25) (FCS) - Montgomery County Association for Family & Community Education

Master Gardeners and Environment & Natural Resources

  • Marie Rojas (2024-25) - Horticulture, Ag/Master Gardener, IPM Consultant, Farmer in the Ag Reserve
  • Melissa Siegel (2024-25)
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